BEYOND ALL DREAMS - Elizabeth Camden - One Free Book, Plus Much More

Dear Readers, I've loved reading Elizabeth Camden's novels, so when this one arrived, I started reading it right away. Her characters are very three-dimensional, and they have flaws that draw me into their lives. These did especially, because I love reading about historical Washington, DC, and I'm very interested in the Library of Congress. The book truly was page-turner, and the characters stayed with me long after I finished reading the book. You won't want to miss this one.

BIO: Elizabeth Camden is a research librarian at a small college in central Florida. Her novels have won the coveted RITA and Christy Awards. She has published several articles for academic publications and is the author of four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. Elizabeth lives with her husband near Orlando, Florida.

Tell us a little about your family.

I got married pretty late in life, which was a mixed blessing. I know what it is to be lonely, but my life as a single woman taught me to become a strong person capable of taking care of myself. Perhaps most importantly, I will never take my husband for granted! Bill and I have been married for fourteen years, and I give thanks for him every day. We don’t have children of our own, but I was a custodial stepmom for the first five years of our marriage. The girls are now grown and out of the nest, so it’s just Bill and me. Life is good!

How do you choose your settings for each book?

I am attracted to the late 19th and early 20th century. This is simply a fascinating era for me: it has the glamor and romance of an earlier time, but modern technology and attitudes were beginning to take root. The kind of highly skilled, professional heroines I write about would be harder to fit in to earlier eras.

I especially like Washington D.C. for a setting because there were so many opportunities for professional women, beginning with the Civil War and up until the present. The federal government has always been very open to hiring women, so this is a great setting for me. My last book (With Every Breath) featured a woman working in a government research trial dealing with tuberculosis in the 1890’s. My current novel (Beyond All Dreams) features a heroine working at the Library of Congress. I hope to write many more novels set in Washington, simply because it is so rich with possibilities.

What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?

I didn’t have a deep appreciation for how important it is to get geographical details correct. My first novel was set in 19th century Baltimore, and I really didn’t know all that much about the area. I did enough research to get the street names and the local industries correct, but beyond that? Baltimore was merely a backdrop. My publisher picked a name for the novel, The Lady of Bolton Hill, which really shone a spotlight on the Baltimore suburb where most of the novel is set, but it wasn’t particularly imbued with details of life in Bolton Hill. Oh boy! Before the novel was even released, I was getting email from folks in Bolton Hill excited about the release. It was profiled on a ton of Baltimore-area blogs. I felt pretty bad about the folks who were buying the novel hoping for a great novel about their neighborhood. Hey, I still love that novel, but I wish the title hadn’t given some people the wrong impression.

I’ve never made that mistake again. I am very proud of the research I do into the cities where I set my novels, down to the cuisine, ethnic character, the climate, flora and fauna, and the personality of the place. My novel Into the Whirlwind was practically a love letter to the city of Chicago. I now routinely get email from folks in the cities I write about complimenting me on “getting things right.”

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

Have you ever noticed that sometimes the simplest of biblical verses can contain the most profound, universal truths? Lately the phrase that has been resonating with me is 1 Peter 4:8. Above all, love one another deeply. If I were the type of person to get a tattoo, this is the phrase I would use! It is beautiful in its simplicity, yet so powerful and all-encompassing in its message. I see too many people who are willing to extend compassion or charity only to those they deem worthy. There is also a tendency to demonize those from the opposite side of their political viewpoint.

It is difficult to watch the news these days that is filled with so much political turmoil, racial incidents that spiral out of control, wife abuse, etc. Above all, love one another! This does not mean you must approve of the actions, but anger and demonizing the opposition has not been working too well in solving the incidents I am referring to. Step back, take a breath, and try to understand the other side. They may be wrong. In many cases, they certainly are … but it is hard to truly solve these problems without trying to understand our fellow man. 

Tell us about Beyond All Dreams.

The novel is about a librarian who stumbles across a baffling mystery of a ship that disappeared at sea. The ship and the entire crew has never been heard from again, but Anna begins to suspect the government knows what actually happened to the ship. The setting is at the Library of Congress in 1898, and when the government stonewalls her attempt to learn more about the missing ship, Anna turns to a charismatic congressman for help. As the two of them begin piecing the mystery together, they become embroiled in secrets much bigger than they ever imagined.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I am at http://elizabethcamden.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethCamden

Travel back in time to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress in Elizabeth Camden's newest release, Beyond All Dreams. From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Elizabeth is celebrating the release of Beyond All Dreams with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• One copy of Beyond All Dreams

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/17. Winner will be announced at Elizabeth's 2/17 Beyond All Dreams Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Elizabeth and historical fiction fans, as well as for the opportunity to win some great prizes!
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 17th!

Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing this new book with us. I know my readers will love it as much as I did.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Beyond All Dreams - Christianbook.com
Beyond All Dreams - Amazon
Beyond All Dreams - Kindle

Christian Book Store

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

THE DANDELION FIELD - Kathryn Springer - Two Free Books, Plus A Kindle Fire Giveaway

BIO: Kathryn Springer, winner of the 2009 ACFW Carol Award (Family Treasures), grew up in a small town in northern Wisconsin, where her parents published a weekly newspaper. As a child, she spent many hours sitting at her mother’s typewriter, plunking out stories, and credits her parents for instilling in her a love of books – which eventually turned into a desire to tell stories of her own. Encouraging women in their faith journey is the reason Kathryn loves to write inspirational fiction. When she isn’t at the computer, you’ll find her sitting in the sun with a cup of coffee and a good book or walking the trails near her country home.

Welcome, Kathryn. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I would have to say it depends on the character ... and what they’re going through during the story! I attended a workshop where the presenter urged us to “do the hard work” when it comes to our characters. To me, that doesn’t just mean knowing my characters’ goals and motivations or their backstory. It means that I take some risks, too. I can’t be afraid to wade into the deep emotional waters that I send my characters into! 

What is the quirkiest thing you’ve ever done?

When I was speaking at a women’s Advent luncheon a few years ago, I stepped away from the microphone and broke into a little dance. For some people, this might not qualify as quirky, but I’m an introvert and I still can’t believe I actually did that. At least I wasn’t wearing heels at the time because I probably would have ended up in the lap of a person sitting in the front row!

When did you first discover you were a writer?

I loved Marguerite Henry’s books when I was a little girl, and I begged my parents for a horse. We lived in town, though, so there was nowhere to put one (although I think I suggested my brother’s room!) Because I couldn’t have a horse of my own, I wrote a “book” about one. And, of course, I was the heroine! I think that’s when I discovered that I liked to create stories as much as I liked to read them.

           

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

Even writing six or seven hours a day, I manage to find time to read! It’s funny, I write contemporary romance but I absolutely love historical fiction, especially the ones set in the old west (yes, I’m talking cowboys). I’m also a big fan of romantic suspense. For non-fiction, I have to admit I am reading One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp for about the fourth or fifth time.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

There are times I’m busier than others, but I try hard not to load too much onto my plate ... and I’m a total homebody. It probably helps that I live in the country, ten miles from my friends ... and restaurants ... and bookstores!

How do you choose your characters’ names? 

This is going to sound like one of those weird “writer” things, but most of the time my main characters tell me their names. It’s true—they introduce themselves to me! Sometimes I don’t particularly like the name, either, but I have no choice—that’s their name! I also keep a book of baby names on my desk and sometimes I’ll choose a name based on its meaning if it matches a particularly trait or quality the character has.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? 

Our three children. They are amazing—even if they weren’t my children, I would still like them J

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

 My cat. If you are a cat owner, you know why!

What is your favorite food?

Turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing ... mmm, I guess my favorite food is Thanksgiving dinner!

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

When I felt God calling me to make writing a priority, I was very involved with women’s ministries at my church. In order to set a block of time aside to write every day while my children were in school meant that I had to step down from the things I was doing outside the home. I guess fear was the greatest roadblock (and there was some guilt, too!). I was afraid people would think that writing a book was selfish; a way to feed my own ego. I had no guarantee the book I was writing would be published ... I had no idea if all the time and energy I poured into it would produce fruit. All I knew was that God was saying, “It’s time.” For me, it was an act of obedience. And it took a while for me to grasp that I wasn’t giving up ministry—writing was my ministry!

Tell us about the featured book.

The idea for The Dandelion Field was brewing in my mind for about six years before I even put pen to paper, but every so often the characters would remind me they were there. I finally couldn’t ignore them anymore and had to tell their story!

Firefighter Dan Moretti is the kind of man who’s earned the trust of an entire community ... and then he meets single mom Ginevieve Lightly, who doesn’t trust men at all. They are so different in terms of their background and experiences, but so perfect for each other!

Dandelion Field is a contemporary romance, but it’s also about family and friendship and sticking together through tough times ... and trusting that God can turn the pieces of a broken past into a beautiful new beginning.

Please give us the first page of the book.

“OKAY, GINEVIEVE. What’s bugging you?”

Besides being called Ginevieve?

           

Gin’s back teeth snapped together so she wouldn’t be tempted to say the words out loud. Even though a side dish of sarcasm accompanied every blue plate special Sue Granger served to her customers, Gin’s boss didn’t tolerate it from the hired help.

           

“Nothing.” Gin knew she sounded like a surly twelve-year-old, but she couldn’t help it. It had been that kind of morning.

           

“Right.” The handle of a wooden spoon found a sensitive spot between Gin’s shoulder blades and dug in like a cattle prod, herding her toward the back of the diner. “You got ten thumbs today, and none of them are working right.”

           

“Sue—”

           

“Sit.”

           

Gin sat.

           

Sue maneuvered her barrel-shaped frame into the booth and shoved a plastic coffee carafe across the table.

           

“When you hired me, you said you weren’t going to be my mother,” Gin dared to remind her.

           

“If I remember correctly, I also told you not to jerk my chain.” Sue’s top lip peeled back, revealing a row of teeth stained a delicate sepia from years of smoking filterless Camels.

           

Gin hadn’t forgotten. And so far, out of a healthy respect for the woman who signed her weekly paychecks, she hadn’t touched her chain either.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website at www.kathrynspringer.com

Facebook: kathrynspringerauthor

Thank you, Kathryn, for sharing this new book with us today.

Get ready for Valentine's Day with a new story of romance and falling in love in Kathryn Springer's The Dandelion Field. The handsome firefighter makes a living “coming to the rescue,” but Gin is used to fighting her own battles. Can a woman who doesn't believe in happy endings take a chance on a new beginning? 

Celebrate a second chance at love and family with Kathryn by entering her Kindle Fire giveaway!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• The Dandelion Field

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 15th. Winner will be announced February 16th on the Litfuse blog.

  {NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.} Thank you, Kathryn, for sharing this new book with us today. I know my readers will love it.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog. The Dandelion Field - Christianbook.com
The Dandelion Field - Amazon
The Dandelion Field - Kindle

Christian Book Store

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

PITCHIN' A FIT - Brandilyn Collins - One Free Book

Welcome back Brandilyn. Why did you become an author?

I’ve always been driven to write. I wrote my first story when I was seven, in second grade. First line of that story: “Once there was a stallion named Betsy.” Grabs you right away, huh. :]

In the 1990s, already enjoying a successful career in writing nonfiction and marketing, I began learning the craft of fiction. I was planning to write novels for the secular market, but in June 1998 God clearly told me He had other plans. He wanted my writing to be about Him. As a result I’ve been in the Christian market since the sale of my first novel.

If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?

Movie actress. I’d love the work, but I’d hate being recognized on the street.

Methinks I shall remain an author.

If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?

2100. Just to see all the cool gadgets and medical marvels we’d have by then. Plus, wouldn’t it be interesting to see your descendants?

Yes, it would. When you start having great grandchildren, you gain a strong sense of what a legacy descendents are. What place in the United States have you not visited that you would like to?

I’ve been to every state but two—Alaska and Maine. Hitting both of them is on my bucket list.

You’re way ahead of me. How about a foreign country you hope to visit?

Australia, matey!

I’ve had a very longtime desire to visit Australia. What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?

Simply to relax and trust Him. Easy to say. Hard to do sometimes.

Tell us about the featured book.

Pitchin’ A Fit is book 2 in my Southern contemporary Dearing Family series. The first book in the series is That Dog Won’t Hunt. The Dearing family members are boisterous, loving, and quirky, down to the family Yorkie (who, naturally, won’t hunt). This series mixes poignancy and humor as it deals with issues such as past abuse and forgiveness. You can find purchase links for Pitchin’ A Fit on this page of my website. (Ebook: $2.99 on all devices. Paper: $12.59, prime on Amazon.)

Here is the back cover copy:

The wedding for Ben Dearing and Christina Day is planned to be picture perfect, and the boisterous family has gathered for the big event. What could possibly go wrong?

Christina’s estranged mother, that’s what. The alcoholic, abusive mother who wasn’t invited. Two days before the ceremony Edna Day crashes the bridal shower and insists she’s staying in town for the ceremony. What’s Christina to do? After her abusive childhood, standing up to her parent calls for strength she’s not sure she possesses. Besides, if she tells her mother to leave, the woman could get madder than she already is—not to mention drunk—and shame the Dearing family in front of the whole town.

Edna wastes no time making enemies. Highly opinionated Jess Dearing is set on running her out of Justus. Ben wants her gone, too. Even Lady Penelope, the Dearings’ uppity Yorkie, will have nothing to do with her. Meanwhile Mama Ruth is trying to keep the peace. And feed everybody.

Blending pathos and humor, Pitchin’ a Fit portrays the constantly shifting emotions between an abusive parent and grown child. How does a Christian forgive someone who doesn’t seem repentant? What is the balance between forgiveness and maintaining healthy emotional boundaries? God is there to guide everyone through this mess of a weekend. But certain people may have plans of their own.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Getting married wasn’t supposed to be this complicated.

Twenty-three-year-old Christina Day pushed blonde hair out of her eyes and beamed a smile at the circle of women perched in the Dearings’ living room. They were all older than she. And Christina didn’t know anyone who’d come to her bridal shower except for her future mother-in-law, Ruth Dearing, and her three future sisters-in-law, Sarah, Maddy, and Jess, all in their thirties. Most of the other women attended New Life Church in Justus, Mississippi, where the Dearing family had worshipped for years. Christina had gone there only once. And that had been five months ago in July at the Dearing reunion, on the day the crazy family ended up posing for their annual picture on a row of old toilets—and Christina decided she could marry Ben after all.

Not that the first event directly led to the second.

Christina wanted to marry Ben more than anything. From the first day she met him at work in Dallas she’d been attracted to him. Ben was far from the stereotypical computer programmer nerd. His blue eyes could light up a room, and his friendly, boyish face and laidback attitude charmed everyone. Their wedding would be wonderful and simple, just the way Christina wanted it. The next two days would produce memories for a lifetime.

She just had to get through them first.

“You okay?” Ruth Dearing mouthed to Christina from across the room.

Oh, no. Christina gave her a big nod and smiled. Had some expression given her away? Mama Ruth was so compassionate. She’d gone to a lot of trouble to throw this bridal shower in her own home. Today was December fifth, yet she’d held off putting up a Christmas tree to make room for all the women. Still, she seemed so aware it may not be the easiest thing for Christina. Ruth Dearing deserved to see only happiness on the face of her almost daughter-in-law. Both Mama Ruth and her husband, Syton, had been nothing but kind to Christina. And she hadn’t always deserved it.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love to interact with my readers on Facebook. On my website you can sign up for my newsletter and read the opening chapters of all my books. On Twitter I’m @brandilyn.

Thank you, Brandilyn for sharing this new book with us. You know I've loved everyone of your books. I can't wait until my copy comes. It will go to the top of my to-be-read list.

Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

HOPE REBORN - Caryl McAdoo - One Free Book

Bio: With fourteen titles released by six publishers, Simon & Schuster author Caryl McAdoo is excited about her newest historical Christian Texas Romance series HOPE REBORN (1850/Jan. 9, 2015), book three after VOW UNBROKEN (1832/March 2014) and book two HEARTS STOLEN (1844/September, 2014). The novelist also edits, paints, and writes new songs. In 2008, she and her high-school-sweetheart husband Ron moved from the DFW area—home for fifty-five years—to the woods of Red River County. Caryl counts four children and fourteen grandsugars life’s biggest blessings believing all good things come from God. Praying her story gives God glory, she hopes they books will also minister His love, mercy, and grace to all their readers. Caryl and Ron live in Clarksville, the county seat, in the far northeast corner of the Lone Star State.

Welcome back, Caryl. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?

Indeed He has. After writing for almost thirty years … Suddenly … I find myself a hybrid author standing on a precipice shared by so many Christian authors. I believe what’s in store is an amazing surge—a tsunami—of God’s best blessings given His children. I remarkably have nine new titles planned for release, and I’m going to say God willing, because everything can change in a moment when you walk with Him. And there are even more than just those nine already written or half completed, if He makes more time for me. I expect His awesome favor this year on those who seek His Kingdom first! I pray that He’ll let me know if busyness ever places me in jeopardy of getting kicked off that list!

Tell us a little about your family.

I share my life with the wisest, most Christ-like man I’ve ever known. With him, I brought four little McAdoos babies into the world, three sons and a daughter. All live in north Texas relatively within three hours drive. All but the youngest have married, doubling their numbers, and given me fourteen grandsugars. Four of those little boys have lived with O’Pa and me (Grami) almost twelve years, but this year, two of them left—one to college, and one to his other grandparents’ because that granddaddy fell and broke his hip and our boy asked to go so he could be a help to them. So we’re down to two now and enjoy our little family of four. We’ve found a wonderful Church of God with a great youth group only about twenty-five minutes away, and toward Paris which is where my Walmart is. That would be in Northast Texas.

Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?

Oh, yes, so much in that I need to spend that time writing and all that goes with that including editing, proofing, cover design, formatting, marketing, and even building a platform by visiting and being seen all over every form of social media. With rearing grandsons, and all that entails, I have very little free time to read. I still carry books with me to read every time I get a few minutes, but it takes me a long time to finish a book.

What are you working on right now?

I love sharing works in progress! Presently, I’m writing three novels. Book five, DAUGHTERS OF THE HEART, in the historical Christian Texas Romance series. Debuting September 1, 2015, God willing, it’s the story of Henry Buckmeyer’s three youngest daughters who are all reaching courting age.

 Also TOKEN OF THE COVENANT, volume three of my new Biblical fiction series The Generations. It’s planned for release in July, 2015 and tells the story of Noah’s family on the ark and those early years after the waters subsided. It follows volume one A LITTLE LOWER THAN THE ANGELS, with Adam and Eve and their children to Seth, and volume two THEN THE DELUGE COMES (March 2015) featuring Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, Noah and his three sons Japheth, Ham, and Shem.

 And lastly, AQUIRING A WIFE, a contemporary Christian Texas Romance that I’m writing as my Thank You gift to all those who subscribe to my newsletter The Caryler! I give away a free novel every quarter to let them know how much I appreciate them. This story is fun because Ron, my high school sweetheart husband of forty-six years, and I love playing this game called Acquire, and I’m using that game in the story! It’s for the third quarter gift. I already have the stories written THE PREACHER’s FAITH to give away first quarter, and SING A NEW SONG the second—both contemporary Christian Texas Romances.

What outside interests do you have?

Music, I love to sing – mostly praise and worship, but God gives me new songs that go along with my children’s books I take into schools, and He gave me Susannah’s Ballad for VOW UNBROKEN. He gives me scripture songs to help me with whatever I’m going through and to praise Him.

Like: ♥ ♪♫•*It isn't only Your grace♪♫•*♥¨♪*•.♪✞ that's amazing. ♪♫*♥ ♫✞The sound is as sweet♥♪*•♪♫✞of Your faithfulness, too. ♥¨♪*•.♪♫✞You never slumber or sleep; ♪♪*•.♪♫✞You've promised my soul to keep!♥ ♪♫•✞*♥, and when I get in too deep, !♥ ♪♫•✞*Your love always lifts me!♪♫•✞ ✫*Amazing!♥ ♥ •♥✞ ♪♫.♥✞You're so amazing! ♪♫♥♫✞Everything about You! !♥ ♪♫•✞* Everything that you do!♥♥ ♪♫•*♥✞✫The stars✫in the sky! ✫♥ ♪♫•✞*¨*•.♥✞ ♪♫.♥✞ a baby's first cry, ♪✫*♪•♪✞the newness of Spring!♥ ♪♫•✞*¨and the joy that it brings!♥♪♫• ✞✫*You're so amazing, Lord, ♪♫•*♥¨♪*•.♪♫✞You're amazing to me! !♥♥ ♪♫✞♥✞

I also like to paint and garden – not so much the getting down and in the dirt anymore (pretty hard to get up) but decorating the garden, adding touches. I love Pinterest for remembering great ideas.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

In my historical Texas Romances, the Buckmeyers and Baylors who revisit throughout the series live on the very land my husband and I do. The McAdoo Ranch is 916 acres and sits five miles South of Clarksville proper in far Northeast Texas. This way I know all the hills and creeks and fields and timberland so I never get confused where they are. On the cover of Hope Reborn, the house in the background is a recognized historical home in Clarksville proper that belonged to the Lennox family. They also used to own the McAdoo ranch many years ago! So that’s a fun connection! J

If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?

If I could choose a historical person who’s a bit not real, it would be Henry Buckmeyer. I’d really love spending an evening with him. But if I have to choose an actual person, I think I would choose the statesman and movie actor Ronald Reagan who I see as such a down to earth, Christian man who loved America and his family. By far the best president in my lifetime, he would be fun to sit down with and visit.

What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?

Well, the marketing involved to get going, but it wouldn’t have stopped me. I love people and getting to interact with my readers, but it is never ending at this point in my career. It seems that my life is about the next release and all it entails, which is understandable considering I plan on ten new releases in 2015, God willing. All the books through May are already written, and I’m working on July, August, and September now. I’ll add three novels to the historical Texas Romances, four to the contemporary Red River Romance, and three to the Biblical fiction. I am so excited about what God is doing. I didn’t ask for a word at the beginning of this year, but He gave me one anyway. He spoke PROMISE to me. What a year 2015 will be!

What new lesson is the Lord teaching you right now?

This question ties right into the last one in so much as one of my favorite verses, Habakkuk 2:3, “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” I have it marked in my Bible that He spoke this to me back in the ’80s and I have been holding fast to it all these years while going through many trials and tribulations, losses, and broken relationships, but I held fast to the vision. I couldn’t let go. In recent years, since 2012, I have seen His great blessings – a Simon and Schuster contract, a new home, a brand new car (didn’t pay for either) and now what He is accomplishing in 2015 with the books that I’ve written that I pray give Him glory. I know I am right where He wants me to be. What a great place!

What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?

#1 Find a good critique group where peers offer hard critique you may hate hearing, but that will improve your work

#2 Go to conferences! Even small ones if that’s all you can afford, they will help! Learn there from the instructors giving their time, and network with other authors, agents, and editors.

#3 Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness THEN all these things will be added unto you!

Tell us about the featured book.

Hope Reborn was so much fun to write! I loved my heroine being a successful dime novelist, and fell in love with May Meriwether. She carries deep, dark secrets that could change her life so drastically. She longs for true love like she writes about in her books, but at forty-one is convinced time and her dream has passed her by. An article in the New York newspaper catches her eye as she reads about two Texas Ranger heroes. She decides they could spark new life to her writing and immediately plans to leave for the Lone Star State and interview these men as inspiration for the love interest for her next heroine! She finds way more than she ever bargained for.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Texas.

May smiled at the Tribune’s headline, “Fillmore Says Pay Texas Off.” Even the President was thinking about the new state. She returned her gaze to the line close to the bottom of the front page.

Could it be that more than one Henry Buckmeyer lived in Texas? She seriously doubted it, and that settled the matter. She was going west.

“Chester, would you come in here, please?”

While she waited, she reread the article that lacked the prominence due—in her estimation. It hadn’t changed. The man’s name stared back at her in bold type.

“Chester.” She hated raising her voice. “Where are you?”

For a minute more, she tapped her nails in a rapid syncopation—little finger to index—on her desk. Finally, she stood. Where had he gotten off to? And what could he be doing?

Before she reached it, her parlor’s left side door opened. “Did you need me, ma’am?”

“Yes, I wanted to know if you read that article I gave you about the exploits of those two Texas Rangers.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Well? What did you think?”

“Interesting. Might be a novel there, but really, ma’am, not your sort of story. Is it?”

“Well, I don’t see why not.” She headed back to her chair with the man following then flopped into it. “Oh, Chester.” She massaged her face, thumbs on her jaws.

“Yes, ma’am?”

“I’m so sick of snooty-prude ladies doing whatever they can think of to trick stuffy-shirted men into marriage.” Her hands went high into the air in defiance then relaxed into a stretch. “Really. I can’t write another.”

He looked around the rather large room; it tickled her that the New York mansion’s grandeur still impressed him, always had. “But those stories do pay the bills.”

She hated that everything always boiled down to gold coins. “Ah, but certainly, there’s got to be more to life than money.”

“Well said, if you have plenty.”

The last thing she wanted this evening was to get into a debate over dollars. Besides, she didn’t like to think of herself as having plenty, as he put it.

“Fine. I’ll capitulate. Life requires filthy lucre. There. Now if you’re happy, how about you remove a handsome amount out of the safe for me? I’m going to Texas.”

“What?” He grinned, and his snowy teeth glistened as white as any of her heroes’. “No. Millicent May. Texas is unruly, primitive. And there are wild Indians. You cannot.”

She glared. “Do not call me that, you know better.” Clearing her throat, she smoothed her hair, pushing up a curl, and willed herself calm and reserved. “And do not presume to tell me what I can—or cannot—do. Please.”

He lifted his brows and tucked his chin a bit, but only looked at her, didn’t speak.

“So why not?”

“Texas came into the Union as a slave state, ma’am.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

All Books: http://tinyurl.com/CarylsAmazonPage

Hope Reborn: http://tinyurl.com/HopeReborn

Website: http://www.CarylMcAdoo.com

(All First Chapters are offered here)

Newsletter: http://carylmcadoo.com/sign-up-to-the-caryler/

(Get FREE books for subscribing!)

Reviewer: http://carylmcadoo.com/christian-evaluaters /

(Join Caryl’s Street Team!)

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CarylMcAdoo.author

Blog: http://www.CarylMcAdoo.blogspot.com

GoodReads: http://tinyurl.com/GoodReadsCaryl

Google+: http://tinyurl.com/CarylsGooglePlus

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/CarylMcAdoo

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/CarylMcAdoo

Thank you, Caryl, for sharing this new book with us.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Hope Reborn - Paperback
Hope Reborn (Texas Romance Book 3) - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

WEEP IN THE NIGHT - Valerie Goree - One Free Book

Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I try to make my characters as unlike me as possible. I have OCD tendencies, so I purposely allow my characters to be impulsive, untidy, or make spur-of-the-moment decisions without planning. Naturally, the traits I give each character must match the story-line.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

During the American Christian Fiction Writer’s annual conference, attendees are allowed to dress as their genre for the first evening meal. Since I write romantic suspense, I was looking for a costume to reflect each aspect. I found a cute little hat with a veil that portrayed the romantic side. But how could I add the suspense part? It was close to Halloween and I found a rubber ax surrounded by blood to insert into a slit in a T-shirt. I wore the hat and the ax and received many accolades and several odd looks. I didn’t realize that I’d have to wear the getup for the rest of the evening. I felt very quirky attending the late evening workshops with an ax sticking out of my chest. Won’t do that again!

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

Although I’ve always had a creative side, it took me a long time to conquer my fear of writing. I had a teacher in high school who made us read our essays in front of the class, then she would critique them. That killed any passion I had for writing. Thirty years later, I purchased a word processor 

and poured out my first romantic suspense. (It has not been published, but one day I will revise the novel and submit it.) I’ve been writing ever since.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

My reading choices have changed over the years. I used to only read romances, but now I find straight romance too tame. I usually choose suspense, romantic suspense, or police procedurals.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

We live in the country, 30 miles from the big city. When I need to take a break, I sit on our back porch, and gaze over the field to the hills beyond our fence. Listen to the birds, the doves, the murmuring water splashing over the waterfall. Breathe deep and thank the Lord we have this place of solitude.

Sounds wonderful. How do you choose your characters’ names?

I keep a list of names I like, then when I’m planning a new book, I search through the list and choose names that fit the characters. I like unusual names, but stay away from ‘soap opera’ types, or names that are hard to pronounce. I also make sure that I don’t have too many names that begin with the same letter.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I’ve been thinking a lot about this question. At first I was going to say my children, but in reality I had very little to do with their personalities. I only provided an environment where they could flourish. So, I’ll go back to my career. I worked with students with special needs for 25 years, from three-year-olds, to high school students. I’d like to think that I had a positive influence over all their lives, but what I’m most proud of is teaching slow leaning students to read! I remember one particular young boy who had been retained and told me he was dumb and would never learn to read. After weeks and weeks of working on phonics and figuring out what the words said – I purposely did not say we were ‘reading,’ he stopped and looked at me and said, “Hey, Mrs. Goree, I’m reading!” I often wonder what those kids are doing now.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

I’d like to be an eagle. Soar over the landscape, take in the sights and sounds of God’s glorious creation.

What is your favorite food?

I was born in South Africa where there is a large population of people from India. So along with British foods, I grew up eating Indian curry dishes. Love mutton curry.

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

My problem is time management. I am a great procrastinator, and if I don’t have a deadline, I can find a dozen things to keep me occupied instead of writing. I have not overcome my problem. Anyone have any ideas?

Tell us about the featured book? 
Weep in the night.

After three years in the witness protection program, Sadie Malone’s life in Texas is bland and humdrum—until she meets a new co-worker. Bowen Boudine ignites a flame in Sadie’s long-dormant heart, but when she discovers he knows her true identity, she attempts to flee. He thwarts her escape and reveals the reason he’s been sent to locate her.

Bowen, a seasoned operative with International Retrieval Organization takes his job escorting Sadie back to California seriously, but quickly finds he’s falling for her. Can he maintain a professional relationship while he protects her from the crime boss her testimony helped to convict?

Please give us the first page of the book.

She ran her finger across the white plastic name tag. Blue letters spelled out Debra Johnson, but that wasn’t her name.

The bulb above the sink crackled and died. She hated the dark. Backing out of the bathroom, she leaned against the wall and flipped on the hall light. Shadows scuttled away, but left a trace of unease in her gut.

Tears blurred her vision as she pinned the name tag on her shirt. It took two attempts to snag the pin in place. Get a grip, Sadie. You’re safe.

Although she’d been in the Federal Witness Protection Program for almost three years, she still thought of herself as Sadie Malone. Sometimes the past latched onto her soul and yanked her down to the depths of grief like a meteor plummeting to earth. Today would have been her husband’s thirty-seventh birthday. She closed her eyes. The faces of Aaron, and Hannah, her four-year-old daughter, floated in and out of a gray mist. Gone. They were both gone.

A shiver took control of Sadie’s body as ice crystals formed in her heart.

She would not succumb to despair.                 

I can't wait for my copy to come. How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website: www.valeriegoreeauthor.com.

Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieMasseyGoree?ref=hl

I contribute to Catherine Leggitt’s blog which addresses topics that affect A Woman My Age. I write under the heading, My Mother, My child. www.catherineleggitt.com

Thank you, for sharing this mew book with us. I love romantic suspense.

Readers, here are links to the book. 
http://www.christianbook.com/weep-in-the-night/valerie-goree/9781611163872/pd/163872?event=ESRCG

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=ntt_athr_dp_sr_1?_encoding=UTF8&field-author=Valerie%20Massey%20Goree&search-alias=digital-text&sort=relevancerank

http://www.deepershopping.com/item/valerie-massey-goree/weep-in-the-night/6372932.html

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/weep-in-the-night-valerie-massey-goree/1120501138?ean=9781611163872

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

WINNERS!!!!!

Robin (NC) is the winner of Once a Marine by Loree Lough.
Abigail (NC) is the winner of Brentwood's Ward by Michelle Griep.
Loraine (TX) is the winner of The Color of Sorrow Isn't Blue by Sharon K Souza.
Linda (IL) is the winner of the Ebook The Right Ingredients by Nancy Shew Bolton.
Angela (KY) is the winner of When Dawn Breaks by Jennifer Slattery.

If you won a book and you like it, consider giving the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, Barnes and Noble, or other Internet sites. 

Also, tell your friends about the book ... and this blog. Thank you.

Congratulations, everyone. If you won a print book, send me your mailing address:
Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email.

If you won an ebook, just let me know what email address it should be sent to.

When you contact me, please give the title of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

A STITCH IN CRIME - Cathy Elliott - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I’m reading A Stitch in Crime right now. If you love a mystery filled with quirky characters, you’ll love this book. All the quilts and antiques add a special spark to the setting, too.

Bio: Cathy Elliott is a full-time writer in northern California whose cozy mysteries reflect her personal interests from quilting and antique collecting to playing her fiddle with friends. She also leads music at church and enjoys time with her grandchildren. Cathy’s previous plot-twisting works include A Vase of Mistaken Identity and Medals in the Attic.

Welcome, Cathy. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

Though my characters are a mix of many people, real and imaginary, there could be a bit of me in each one - but often enhanced. For instance, I sometimes procrastinate. But my protagonist, Thea James, is a chronic procrastinator in every way. She’s like Scarlet O’Hara. She’ll do it tomorrow.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I once answered the phone at work with my bad Swedish accent, attempting a joke on a colleague. “Yah, shure … und kin I help yer?” But it wasn’t my friend on the line; it was a patron calling for assistance. What could I do? I couldn’t tell her I was goofing off.

I made a madcap decision and stayed in character, continuing my “Hans and Franz” show. “Yah, yah. I tink yer neetin’ duh reference desk. Yust holt on dere, und I’ll transfer yer call.” Acting as normal as possible, I transferred the call amid incredulous stares from nearby staff. Then upon hang up, I fell apart laughing with embarrassment and relief. The incident would become break-room fodder by the end of the day.

When I was in college, I worked the college switchboard. I was on duty when the tail end of a hurricane was fast approaching our campus. After hours of answering one frantic call from a parent after another, I went to the cafeteria for supper. I bowed my head to bless the food, and without thinking said, “Hello, Ouachita Baptist College.” I’m sure even God laughed right along with my roommates. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

The day author Cindy Martinusen Coloma read a chapter I had written and told me I’d better get myself to the Mt. Hermon conference and submit a proposal. ‘Til then, only my mother admired my written words.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I love mysteries - both cozy and suspenseful; true crime and police procedurals; thrillers – espionage and political; romance - especially historical, gothic, or Edwardian; and classics best. If it’s written well, I’m in.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

In truth, I do seem to work very well under pressure. But when life overwhelms, the old song line, “One day at a time, sweet Jesus” works for me. I can take it slower and trust it will all get done because He is my Rest.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Choosing names is all joy for me. Thea’s name came years after watching Middlemarch, adapted for TV by the BBC. I remembered the character of Dorothea Brooke, her sense of justice, her kindness, and her quest for meaningful work. Rosamund, her sister, called her “Doro” but I preferred Thea for my beloved protagonist. In A Stitch in Crime, her proper name is Dorothea. My story reveals she was named after the Middlemarch character, much admired by Thea’s mum.

In addition, I used the name Rosie (from sister, Rosamund) as Thea’s sister, too. It seemed only right that Mum would name both her girls after these characters. In Middlemarch, Rosamund is the sister with the heightened sense of fun. Rather like Thea’s nutty sister, Rosie.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Birthing a baby or birthing a book? Hmm. It’s no contest. Raising my children takes the prize. Though I’m mighty proud of my books, too.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

Like many girls, I grew up a horse lover, reading Walter Farley, copying the Wesley Dennis illustrations in Marguerite Henry’s Misty books, and riding whenever I could. So … perhaps I’d be a horse. A gentle mare that carries children and adults alike with a smooth gait; one that loves to run and work and graze in green fields. I’d be a high-stepper and prance with pride and carry myself with elegance. Maybe a Palomino … so I could see if blondes really do have more fun!

What is your favorite food?

Oh, dear. I’m afraid it’s ice cream. But I don’t keep it in the house; it’s too much of a favorite.

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

Lack of confidence. I’ve pushed a couple of great projects to the side because I’ve let fear of failure overtake me. But when I look back and see the hard things I’ve accomplished on this writing journey, the successes that have come with perseverance, confidence rushes back. Then, I’m anxious to meet the challenge and prove to myself that I can do it!

Tell us about the featured book.

Thea James thought working as co-chair for Larkindale’s first quilt show extravaganza would be a natural extension of her antique business. But while organizing the busy week’s premiere events would make anyone frayed, she doesn’t expect a complete unraveling!

At the opening soirée, local matriarch Mary-Alice Wentworth is knocked unconscious and robbed of her diamond brooch. Soon a rare quilt—the main attraction and a rumored key to great riches—goes missing. Those who signed up to help Thea are strangely no help at all. What more could possibly happen?

Amid a cast of colorful characters and a tight schedule of garden galas, tea parties, and televised socials, everything is falling apart at the seams – and nothing is quite what it seems. Can Thea sew everything back together?

"...Fans of inspirational fiction will enjoy the funny, feel-good whodunit."
Publishers Weekly Review - November 7, 2014

“...Fans will want to add this gem to their keeper shelf.”
RT 4-Star Review - November 12, 2014

Please give us the first page of the book.

Perhaps if she simply avoided eye contact.

Thea James turned her back on the partygoers, paying attention to the dessert buffet instead. The Quilt-Without-Guilt Guild had surpassed their Christmas potluck standard. Among a bounty of petite cakes, cookies, puffs, and bars, Thea found her own offering, a plate of blueberry tartlets. They appeared untouched. Strange. She pulled them to the front of the culinary display.

“Thea! Why are you hiding out in the desserts when I need your help?” The familiar voice of fellow guild member, Heather Ann Brewster, hinted at desperation.

Turning with reluctance, Thea morphed into hospitality mode. “Blueberry tartlet?”

“What?” Heather Ann viewed the diminutive dessert, gave a small shudder, and then had the grace to look apologetic. “Ah ... no, thanks. I haven’t browsed the appetizers yet. Anyway, I can’t think about food now. I’m too upset.”

Thea shoved her reluctance aside. “What seems to be the problem, Heather Ann?” This time.

“You know the publicity banner we had made? The one advertising the quilt show next weekend? The one supposed to be hanging over the entrance to Old Town?”

Excerpt from A Stitch in Crime. © Cathy Elliott. Publishing by Abingdon Press. UBP.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’d love to connect with your readers, Lena! I have a website (and Occasional Blog) and am a true devotee of Pinterest. Or you can see what I’m up to on Facebook. Links below.

Website & Occasional Blog - www.cathyelliottbooks.com

Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/cathyelliott10/

Facebook – Author Cathy Elliott cathyelliottbooks.com

Thanks so much for having me, Lena. A lovely experience!

And we're so glad to have you here, Cathy.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
A Stitch in Crime - Christianbook.com
A Stitch in Crime: Quilts of Love Series - Amazon
A Stitch in Crime: Quilts of Love Series - Kindle

Christian Book Store

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com